My Favourite Audiobooks of 2015

In 2015, I discovered the joy of reading books via Audiobooks. Here is the list of the audiobooks that I read this year using Audible and other sources.These are the audiobooks that I enjoyed listening during the year 2015:

Since I usually don't have too much time for books or audiobooks, I exploited all the chances offered by my busy life to listen to books. So, I listened to my audiobooks in many places including my car, in the gym, in the grocery store or when running or walking my dog. All my electronic devices were sync with my Audible account to make my audiobook experience more efficient.

I was born in Lima (Peru) into a classic catholic family where the mother stayed home taking care of the kids, and the father was the one working outside the home. So, I am both a scientist and a catholic who believes in God. Believing in God has helped me to pass through very difficult moments in my life, including facing all kind of abuses, that I now prefer to forget.

In 1996, I completed my Ph D in biological sciences (with a specialization in ecology) from the University of Montreal. Although I had the possibility of staying in Quebec to do a post-doc and perhaps find a job there, I accepted a faculty position at the University of Prince Edward Island (Prince Edward Island) just a few days after I completed my Ph D. This was probably one of the most important decisions that I have made in my life so far.

My husband and I got married in 2010 when I was 45 years old. So, I am now the proud step-mother of a fantastic 12-years old boy (from my husband previous marriage). My son, Elijah, was born in 2009. The birth of Elijah was that final step or issue that I needed to review my life priorities and reconsider my workaholism.

So, I know now that my family is my number #1 priority. Work is very important for me for many reasons, especially because I enjoy very much teaching and the interactions with students. But, I also know that a balance between work and family is necessary for me. I cannot be a good mother or a good wife if I put 65+ hours of work per week; I simply can't. Why? Because I want to be there for my husband, kids and also for myself.

At this point of my life, 49 years old, I want to feel that I have accomplished some of my dreams and not just dedicated my life to work. I want to be present, physically and mentally, for my husband and children. I don't want to wait until I retire to enjoy and live life.

Life is short and unpredictable. This is what I have learned over the last five years. I need to live now!